In a grand celebration of maritime heritage and diplomatic relations, and on the occasion of its XXXIII Annual Training Voyage and its participation of Sail Den Helder 2023, Uruguay’s Capitan Miranda Navy Training Tallship gracefully sailed into the Port of Den Helder in the Netherlands to participate in diverse events.
One of them, the reception hosted by H.E. Mr. Álvaro González Otero, the Ambassador of Uruguay in the Netherlands, together with the Captain Mario Vaucher Rivero on June 30th, 2023, was a true reflection of the ship’s historical importance and its connection to the own life story of the Uruguayan Ambassador.
In spite of the two hours distance that exists between The Hague and the Den Helder’s harbor, the event brought together a relevant number of distinguished international and national authorities, marking an exceptional display of camaraderie and cultural exchange.
The Capitan Miranda: A Personal Journey
For Ambassador Álvaro González Otero, the Capitan Miranda Tallship carries sentimental personal significance. The ship’s history intertwines with his own life’s journey, forming an unbreakable bond that has spanned several generations of marine officials.
His first encounter with the vessel was in the company of his step uncle, who served as the Captain of the ship during his young years, leaving an indelible impression on the young Álvaro, shaping his passion for maritime affairs and the recognized spread of Uruguayan values and quality products that this school vessel transmits in each country its representative crew visits.
As Ambassador González Otero embarked on a long and distinguished diplomatic career, during which he had the privilege of receiving the Capitan Miranda in various countries before, including Baltimore, USA, and Salvador de Bahia, Brazil.
In this opportunity, as he welcomed the tall ship to the Netherlands, his heart swelled with pride, knowing that the ship continues to represent Uruguay’s commitment to naval education, cultural exchange and social values that meaningfully characterized their own country.
A Diplomatic Reception to Remember
The diplomatic reception was a splendid affair that echoed the importance of the Capitan Miranda itself. Held on board the event was attended by distinguished ambassadors from various nations, military attachés, Sail Den Helder 2023 authorities, eminent business figures, accomplished artists, high university officials, and kind friends of Uruguay. The gathering showcased the power of diplomacy in fostering friendships and strengthening international cooperation.
In an improvised and short presentation, the Ambassador of Uruguay stood before his distinguished guests, expressing his heartfelt gratitude for their presence and shared commitment to encouragement strong diplomatic ties. He highlighted the Capitan Miranda tall ship’s significance in bridging nations and nurturing cultural understanding, inspiring applause from the audience.
The Ambassador also highlighted the enjoyable food prepared by the vessel cuisine, the excellent Uruguayan wines served to the guests, and the finest attention, care and support coming from the Captain, Officers and the whole crew of the tall ship to all the people and visitors. He ended remembering the value and popularity of the Capitan Miranda worldwide and how much it is appreciated in his own country.
Uruguay’s Capitan Miranda Training Tallship
The Commander, Captain Vaucher, also pronounced a speech emphasizing his gratitude to the Netherlands authorities and the special relation and cooperation that also exists between the ship and the Uruguayan diplomats all over the world.
As the sun set over the Dutch horizon, the Capitan Miranda buzzed with excitement and a sense of anticipation. Amidst the traditional music, wine and food of Uruguay, all the people engaged in animated conversations. The Capitan Miranda stood tall in the backdrop, an emblem of unity, evoking shared memories of maritime voyages and cross-cultural experiences.
Celebrating Cultural Exchange Uruguay / Netherlands
During the reception, a sample dance performance of tango and candombe by the crew, brought elements of Uruguay captivating the audience with blend of tradition and innovation.
The crew’s genuine openness and willingness to explain their experiences aboard the tall ship created an atmosphere of camaraderie and friendship. Attendees left the reception not only with unforgettable memories of the Capitan Miranda’s mission — a floating ambassador of goodwill that transcends borders and brings nations together.
The Uruguayan school vessel has already been invited by Dutch authorities to participate in the 10th Sail Amsterdam 2025, which is an impressive nautical event, that takes place every five years since 1975.
In 2025, the city of Amsterdam will be 750 years old, and the Kingdom of the Netherlands will celebrate this in grand style.
